Back
Print 

Cherry angiomas

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

Cherry angiomas (ruby spots) are harmless clusters of dilated tiny blood vessels (capillaries) that become more common after age 30. The cause is unknown.

Bright, cherry red, smooth spots appear most often on the trunk and upper legs but may also be found on the face, neck, scalp, and arms. The size of the spots may vary from pinhead size to about the size of a pencil eraser. Although they are painless and harmless, cherry angiomas may bleed profusely if injured (until pressure is applied to stop the bleeding).

Cherry angiomas do not generally require any treatment. A doctor can remove them with surgery, freezing (cryotherapy), or burning (electrosurgery or cautery) if their appearance causes embarrassment or distress.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.